Father: Raelynn Rose Fuller shaken "almost to death"

Family members confirm to 7 Eyewitness News Raelynn Rose Fuller is the toddler who died over the weekend.

Raelynn had been hospitalized at John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital since September 10.

Raelynn’s father, Cody Fuller said doctors believe she had been shaken “almost to death,” prior to being admitted.

As we first reported on Friday, deputies said Raelynn was rushed to the hospital after she reportedly passed out and was having trouble breathing at a home on Grand Island. According to deputies, a subsequent investigation revealed she sustained injuries that resulted in her being unresponsive.

Deputies said 26-year-old Brianna Valenti is the prime suspect.

Fuller told 7 Eyewitness News Valenti was his girlfriend, and she had been caring for Raelynn and her five-year-old daughter when Raelynn sustained her injuries. Fuller said he was at work on September 10th, when he got a call from Valenti saying Raelynn was having trouble breathing. He said she told investigators Raelynn had hit her head.

Prior to Raelynn’s death, Valenti was facing several charges including reckless assault of a child. It’s unclear whether she will face more serious charges. Fuller said he’d like her to be charged with Raelynn’s death.

Valenti’s currently being held in the Erie County Holding Center on $150,000 bail.

Raelynn’s funeral arrangements have been made. But, the family is requesting to keep them private.

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